We walked up to the castle from our accommodation in Gorica although it is possible to drive up, there is parking just outside the main gate. Free to enter, the castle is still a working village so there are restaurants and shops in the vicinity. Would recommend taking a map from the tourist information centre to help navigate. There is limited information on the main building highlights and apart from the Onufri museum, none of the other churches were open. The main attraction is the spectacular views across the valley. We enjoyed a very nice lunch at Mbrica traditional restaurant. With lunch and a museum visit we spent about three hours up there.

We stayed one night in a guesthouse inside Berat Castle. It was very refreshing to see locals living there, going about their business and socializing. We took a taxi from the Berat bus station and were dropped off just inside the gate. We had difficulty finding our guesthouse and locals were quick to help us. It was a bit challenging pulling our carry on luggage over the uneven, cobblestone and up the hills, but that was a small price to pay for the privilege of staying inside the castle. Even if one doesn't stay in the castle, it is a wonder to walk around and explore , and the panoramic view from the lookout is unparalleled. There are a few restaurants and souvenir shops around the castle but the real joy comes from exploring and taking in the view of beautiful Berat down beow.

Beautiful view, tough hike! My first recommendation is that you take on the hike from the east side. The road rises about halfway up the mountain and then the steep climb begins on foot. The path is rugged but manageable. The castle, church and prison are small but very worth a visit. There is a wonderful view of all of Berat. Expect several vendors in the area.